Having cruised with Saga before (on Saga Pearl 2) we were keen to try Spirit of Discovery. We chose a Canaries cruise for some winter sun and weren’t disappointed. Warm and sunny from Madeira to all 4 stops in the Canaries. The cabins, all with a balcony, are of good size, minor issues regarding room for shoes and draw space but no real problem for two people for two weeks. All the restaurants are superb. We tried both speciality restaurants and the Club as well as the two main restaurants, all provide excellent food and service. Evening entertainment in the theatre was West End standard the raked seating ensures a perfect view. Afternoon classical concerts (4 piece string quartet) provided a pleasant relaxing contrast. With afternoon and late night films plus knowledge guest speakers there was plenty to do on sea days when you add deck games, quizzes, craft classes, dance classes, keep fit, choir etc etc. All staff from the Captain to your cabin staff were friendly, helpful and polite. Due to rough weather we were unable to visit Lisbon and so had 4 sea days at the end of the cruise, however this was the North Atlantic in January so might be expected. The crew reacted very quickly to provide additional facilities to occupy us and there was always the well stocked library. I do not share the dissatisfaction with dis/embarking mentioned by some. Saga cater for the elderly and the included chauffeur service is a major attraction so the more lengthy process for getting on and off the ship is a small price to pay. Minor complaint: the seating in general (not the restaurants) was too deep in the seat, suited really to those 6 foot plus, and with too little back height. Given the age profile of guests, this seems to owe more to style than comfort. In summary, a lovely, well appointed ship with superb staff, we would definitely cruise with Saga again.
Generally very good, small issue with storage for shoes